Venous calibre reduction after intermittent pneumatic compression

Objective: To evaluate the effect of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) on venous calibre. Methods: A total of 28 subjects were divided into three groups: 15 with venous insufficiency (Var), six with lymphoedema (Lym) and seven healthy (Hlt) subjects. One of each patient's lower limbs were treated with IPC. Both limbs were assessed by a duplex scanner, before and after the treatment, and the calibres were then compared. Results: A significant decrease in the venous calibre was observed only on the treated limbs. The veins affected were: in the Lym group, the lesser saphena (P < 0.05); in the Var group, the greater saphena at its cross (P < 0.01), the lesser saphena (P < 0.02) and the superficial femoral vein (P < 0.05). Conclusion: A 40 mmHg IPC was sufficient to enhance some venous tonus, especially in subjects with venous insufficiency, for 15-30 min after the 30 min of treatment. (c) 2005 Royal Society of Medicine Press.